Dental implants are one of the more complicated procedures to restore oral function and health. While the major visits are for oral surgery, you must also prepare for the pre- and post-op encounters. Some of the best ways to do that include:
A Comprehensive Dental Examination
An exam is important for a dentist to determine whether dental implants are a good option for a patient. The exam can also give the dentist important information that will help them to develop a treatment plan. The dentist will take x-rays, do a visual exam and review the patient’s medical records to assess their condition.
- If a patient has weak immunity, the dentist will place them on antibiotics before and after getting dental implants.
- The dentist will resort to alternatives if the patient is allergic to any anesthetic, medication, or dental materials.
- The dentist may need to improve the jawbone before starting treatment. This can be done by adding bone or changing the existing jawbone’s shape.
- If the patient is under medication that could interfere with the anesthetic or negatively impact the dental implant surgery, the dentist must adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
- If the patient is in good health, the dentist may be able to place the implant and abutment in a single surgery. Sometimes, the dentist can fit the crown together with the implant and abutment.
The dentist will review the evaluation results with the patient and formulate a treatment plan to address the patient’s needs. They will explain the different procedures to the patient and advise them on preparing for each one.
A Course of Antibiotics
If you have a medical implant or organ transplant, you may need to take immunosuppressant drugs to stop your body from rejecting the implant or transplant. Antibiotics may be prescribed before having dental implants fitted, as they can help to reduce the risk of infection. This is to prevent any infection that might occur around the implant site.
Pre-Op Practices
You should not eat or drink for 12 hours before your surgery begins. You should also wear comfortable clothing that will not get in the way during the procedure.
Jaw Preparation
The dentist will improve the jaw’s structure if the jaw cannot anchor the implant properly via:
- Bone graft: The dentist will do a bone graft if the jaw is too thin or soft to hold an implant.
- Smoothening or reshaping: They may smooth or reshape the jaw if needed.
- Bone removal: The dentist will remove some bones if the jaw is too large or bulky.
- Impacted tooth extraction: The dentist will remove any impacted teeth inside the jaw.
Set Downtime and Aftercare
After each surgery, you will need to take some time off to rest and heal. This may include making these arrangements beforehand so you can recover uninterrupted:
- Preparing soft foods and medication.
- Filing two days off from work and temporarily avoiding social gatherings.
- Setting a light schedule the week after getting dental implants.
- Temporarily pausing exercise or other strenuous activities.
- Asking for a ride home after surgery and seeking help around the house.
Conclusion
Self-care is important before and after a dental procedure to ensure a speedy and successful recovery. Your dentist will provide specific instructions before and after your procedure to ensure a speedy, healthy recovery.
Book Your Appointment Today at Pickering Dental Services
Our Pickering dentists offer dental implants as part of our preventive dental care. Begin a lifetime of healthy smiles by scheduling a visit through our website!